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kleman · 24 November 2013, 11:03 PM

Hi All,

I’ve been considering an Explorer 1. It has all I need in a watch. Then, reading the threads in the forum, I notice the popularity of the Submariners and it is starting to grow on me.

I’m not a diver (and would not dive with a Rolex, I think). The Explorer has all waterproofing I will ever need with the added benefit that it is wearable with a suit. I assume that this is the same situation for most people.

So, why is the Submariner more popular? Does it hold better value? Is it sturdier?

Please let me know your view. Thanks,
Jorge

Aventura · 24 November 2013, 11:05 PM

Submariner forever!

Foiel · 24 November 2013, 11:11 PM

I had Exp 1.. I tried last july Sub ref. 114060 and... After 1 week I traded my Exp 1 39mm for my 114060 that I own now.. Why ? I got immediately a Rolex feeling that I didn't have with my Exp 1 (great watch though!!Simply not as THE watch as my 114060) More comfy much more comfy on my wrist and from all points of view a totally different experience of ownership.. For me Sub 114060 is THE watch while Exp 1 39mm is a "just" a wonderful watch... Plus more I got it on my wrist and more I noticed the not perfect proportion of that watch. 114060 is perfect, Bellissimo.

SearChart · 24 November 2013, 11:29 PM

Both are great, but I would pick the Explorer I because I prefer the overall looks of this classic watch.

Rolexitis · 24 November 2013, 11:43 PM

Try them both on. I don't dive either, but I have always been drawn to dive watches. The 114060 never gets old. It has more sizzle than the Explorer in my opinion.

kilyung · 24 November 2013, 11:43 PM

It's entirely personal preference

AWPage · 24 November 2013, 11:45 PM

Both!

One for weekdays and one for the weekend.

kilyung · 24 November 2013, 11:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AWPage

Both!

One for weekdays and one for the weekend.

That is an exceptional pair!

diver2012 · 24 November 2013, 11:56 PM

I went for a Sub when I had the choice. I never regretted it.

kleman · 24 November 2013, 11:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AWPage

Both!

One for weekdays and one for the weekend.

Nice, very nice!

FTX I · 25 November 2013, 12:17 AM

Love the exp but vote Sub

Jack T · 25 November 2013, 12:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AWPage

Both!

One for weekdays and one for the weekend.

That's it, exactly.

I have both, and the Explorer is perhaps the most versatile watch in the Rolex line - discreet, rugged, clean lines, new clasp and bracelet, just a solid all round performer. Dress, casual, sport.

But...along with a DateJust, the Sub is the signature Rolex model, for a first time, it is probably the better choice.

cop414 · 25 November 2013, 01:47 AM

Hard to disagree with Jack! That being said I was at the exact same crossroad with my first Rolex purchase, as well as having the Omega PO in contention. The PO was just too tall for me on the wrist. I had always wanted the Sub since I was just a little kid but the Explorer I also "calls" to me. I ended up with the 14060M but I have to say that my next Rolex purchase will most likley be the Explorer I followed by a DJ of some variation. (I like the fluted bezel - jubilee combo)
To the OP, either will suit you fine for the rest of your life. If you're like many of us here you'll get the "other" one sooner or later anyway. IMHO the Explorer I flies just a bit more under the radar because of the plainer bezel and lack of crown guards.
Keep us posted on your decision.

Roselló · 25 November 2013, 01:53 AM

Explorer 36mm because I own a SD16600...

HL65 · 25 November 2013, 01:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilyung

It's entirely personal preference

X2

mfer · 25 November 2013, 02:00 AM

First one than the other. No wrong choice.

I'd vote 214270 first. Truly versatile.

gmlomas · 25 November 2013, 02:01 AM

Exp 39....even though I have both

cmadams · 25 November 2013, 02:08 AM

36mm Explorer gets my vote. Classic watch that is incredibly versatile.

Tools · 25 November 2013, 02:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kleman

Hi All,

I’ve been considering an Explorer 1. It has all I need in a watch. Then, reading the threads in the forum, I notice the popularity of the Submariners and it is starting to grow on me.

I’m not a diver (and would not dive with a Rolex, I think). The Explorer has all waterproofing I will ever need with the added benefit that it is wearable with a suit. I assume that this is the same situation for most people.

So, why is the Submariner more popular? Does it hold better value? Is it sturdier?

Please let me know your view. Thanks,
Jorge

The Sub has always been a popular watch, but so has the Explorer.. Do not fall into the trap of buying something because you think that other people are buying it..

You are the one wearing the watch and it should be a choice about you, not somebody else. If you do not get the watch that you want, you will always regret the decision and be dissatisfied..

munshpe · 25 November 2013, 02:09 AM

Explorer I is the best choice-can be worn with anything.

sea-dweller · 25 November 2013, 02:15 AM

Both are great! I have them both and they are my favorites!

SLS · 25 November 2013, 02:25 AM

I prefer the 36mm Explorer vs the larger 39mm version. For me, the hands on the 39mm are not proportionate to the dial and that has always bothered me. Both references are great watches and yes, the Sub is certainly more recognizable and probably holds it's value better. But, considering most people hold on to their watches for the rest of their life, resale value is a non issue. Go try both on and you will know instantly which watch is for you. Who knows, you may end up with both or something else may grab your attention. If you hang around here long enough, you may end up with more than just two! Regardless, good luck in your search.

Jack T · 25 November 2013, 02:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SLS

If you hang around here long enough, you may end up with more than just two! Regardless, good luck in your search.

That's for sure !

travisb · 25 November 2013, 03:50 AM

Both can equally handle anything you can dish out.
As said, personal choice.
Lately, I'm pretty fond of the 214270.

T. Ferguson · 25 November 2013, 04:49 AM

Completely a matter of personal preference. To me though, the Sub date or no date is like a navy blue suit in a man's wardrobe. No matter how many suits you have, one of them needs to be navy blue.

LA_LEC · 25 November 2013, 05:14 AM

Sub...trust me.

Stellite · 25 November 2013, 05:30 AM

If the exp1 is what you have been wanting, then get it. If you don't you will wonder for a long time and eventually end up with it anyway. After all, you can always go for a sub later on.

subtona · 25 November 2013, 05:32 AM

Both excellent choices, the explorer definitely flys more under the radar.

Also the size is a bit different so it depends on your wrist a bit, given the opportunity, i would definitely try them both on.

I use the sub bezel daily when i have it on.

Nidal · 25 November 2013, 05:37 AM

Exp1 is one of the overlooked classics. The subC is a different caliber. No wrong choice

Nidal

Cc1966 · 25 November 2013, 05:39 AM

I do love the Exp I; however, if there has to be only one ~ Sub.

24 November 2013, 11:03 PM	#1
kleman "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Real Name: Jorge Location: Switzerland Watch: EXP Posts: 78	Sub or Explorer? Hi All, I’ve been considering an Explorer 1. It has all I need in a watch. Then, reading the threads in the forum, I notice the popularity of the Submariners and it is starting to grow on me. I’m not a diver (and would not dive with a Rolex, I think). The Explorer has all waterproofing I will ever need with the added benefit that it is wearable with a suit. I assume that this is the same situation for most people. So, why is the Submariner more popular? Does it hold better value? Is it sturdier? Please let me know your view. Thanks, Jorge

24 November 2013, 11:11 PM	#3
Foiel "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Italy Watch: Submariner 114060 Posts: 145	I had Exp 1.. I tried last july Sub ref. 114060 and... After 1 week I traded my Exp 1 39mm for my 114060 that I own now.. Why ? I got immediately a Rolex feeling that I didn't have with my Exp 1 (great watch though!!Simply not as THE watch as my 114060) More comfy much more comfy on my wrist and from all points of view a totally different experience of ownership.. For me Sub 114060 is THE watch while Exp 1 39mm is a "just" a wonderful watch... Plus more I got it on my wrist and more I noticed the not perfect proportion of that watch. 114060 is perfect, Bellissimo. __________________ Rolex : Wear it and forget it

24 November 2013, 11:43 PM	#5
Rolexitis "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2008 Real Name: Matt Location: Earth Watch: 114060 Posts: 3,203	Try them both on. I don't dive either, but I have always been drawn to dive watches. The 114060 never gets old. It has more sizzle than the Explorer in my opinion. __________________ Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons

25 November 2013, 01:47 AM	#13
cop414 TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: Apr 2012 Real Name: Tim Location: Pennsylvania Watch: 14060M Posts: 72,137	Hard to disagree with Jack! That being said I was at the exact same crossroad with my first Rolex purchase, as well as having the Omega PO in contention. The PO was just too tall for me on the wrist. I had always wanted the Sub since I was just a little kid but the Explorer I also "calls" to me. I ended up with the 14060M but I have to say that my next Rolex purchase will most likley be the Explorer I followed by a DJ of some variation. (I like the fluted bezel - jubilee combo) To the OP, either will suit you fine for the rest of your life. If you're like many of us here you'll get the "other" one sooner or later anyway. IMHO the Explorer I flies just a bit more under the radar because of the plainer bezel and lack of crown guards. Keep us posted on your decision. __________________ Rolex Submariner 14060M Omega Seamaster 2254.50 DOXA Professional 1200T Card carrying member of TRF's Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons TRF's "After Dark" Bar & NightClub Patron P Club Member #17 2 FA ENABLED

25 November 2013, 01:53 AM	#14
Roselló "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: SA, Texas. Watch: * { SD & DJ } * Posts: 943	Explorer 36mm because I own a SD16600... __________________ ......... All In.

24 November 2013, 11:05 PM	#2
Aventura "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Miami Beach FL US Posts: 1,425	Submariner forever!

24 November 2013, 11:43 PM	#6
kilyung 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Cave Watch: Sundial Posts: 33,940	It's entirely personal preference

24 November 2013, 11:56 PM	#9
diver2012 "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2013 Location: N/A Watch: N/A Posts: 1,372	I went for a Sub when I had the choice. I never regretted it.

25 November 2013, 12:17 AM	#11
FTX I "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2013 Real Name: Flavio Location: N/A Posts: 14,654	Love the exp but vote Sub

25 November 2013, 02:00 AM	#16
mfer "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Real Name: Mik Location: USA Posts: 13,724	First one than the other. No wrong choice. I'd vote 214270 first. Truly versatile. __________________ member#3242

25 November 2013, 02:01 AM	#17
gmlomas Banned Join Date: Jun 2013 Real Name: Guillermo Location: Bangkok Watch: IWC, PAM, Rolex Posts: 310	Exp 39....even though I have both

25 November 2013, 02:08 AM	#18
cmadams "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: USA Posts: 156	36mm Explorer gets my vote. Classic watch that is incredibly versatile.

25 November 2013, 02:09 AM	#20
munshpe "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: USA Posts: 135	Explorer I is the best choice-can be worn with anything.

25 November 2013, 02:15 AM	#21
sea-dweller "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Real Name: Dennis Location: Bay Area - 925 Posts: 40,018	Both are great! I have them both and they are my favorites!

25 November 2013, 02:25 AM	#22
SLS "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Real Name: Scott Location: GMT -7 Watch: GMT's & Sub's Posts: 10,401	I prefer the 36mm Explorer vs the larger 39mm version. For me, the hands on the 39mm are not proportionate to the dial and that has always bothered me. Both references are great watches and yes, the Sub is certainly more recognizable and probably holds it's value better. But, considering most people hold on to their watches for the rest of their life, resale value is a non issue. Go try both on and you will know instantly which watch is for you. Who knows, you may end up with both or something else may grab your attention. If you hang around here long enough, you may end up with more than just two! Regardless, good luck in your search. __________________ "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of lower price is forgotten." -Benjamin Franklin Member No. 922

25 November 2013, 03:50 AM	#24
travisb 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Real Name: Travis Location: FL / NYC Watch: Yes.. Posts: 33,423	Both can equally handle anything you can dish out. As said, personal choice. Lately, I'm pretty fond of the 214270.

25 November 2013, 04:49 AM	#25
T. Ferguson "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Left Coast Posts: 7,025	Completely a matter of personal preference. To me though, the Sub date or no date is like a navy blue suit in a man's wardrobe. No matter how many suits you have, one of them needs to be navy blue. __________________ *Some days it's just not worth chewing through the restraints.*

25 November 2013, 05:14 AM	#26
LA_LEC "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Los Angeles Watch: Explorer Posts: 1,793	Sub...trust me. __________________ 16610 ♛ 16610LV ♛ 214270 MK2 "Life is far too short not to wear a Rolex!"

25 November 2013, 05:30 AM	#27
Stellite "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2011 Real Name: Dennis Location: Colorado Watch: 16600 Posts: 338	If the exp1 is what you have been wanting, then get it. If you don't you will wonder for a long time and eventually end up with it anyway. After all, you can always go for a sub later on.

25 November 2013, 05:32 AM	#28
subtona "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Real Name: gus Location: East Coast Watch: APK & sometimes Y Posts: 26,551	Both excellent choices, the explorer definitely flys more under the radar. Also the size is a bit different so it depends on your wrist a bit, given the opportunity, i would definitely try them both on. I use the sub bezel daily when i have it on. __________________

25 November 2013, 05:37 AM	#29
Nidal "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: USA Watch: SubC LV Posts: 1,821	Exp1 is one of the overlooked classics. The subC is a different caliber. No wrong choice Nidal

25 November 2013, 05:39 AM	#30
Cc1966 "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Real Name: Christopher Location: Georgia, USA Watch: ing the Sea... Posts: 6,713	I do love the Exp I; however, if there has to be only one ~ Sub. __________________ "I wish to have no Connection with any Ship that does not Sail fast for I intend to go in harm's way." Captain John Paul Jones, 16 November 1778 "*Curmudgeons* " Favorites: 1665 SD, Sub Date, DSSD, Exp II, Sub LV, GMTIIc

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